KRALENDIJK – Bonaire’s tourism sector returned to pre-pandemic levels in 2025, according to newly released figures. Despite the recovery, the industry is facing increasing pressure, the BONHATA has warned.
While visitor numbers have rebounded, BONHATA points to a combination of rising costs and structural challenges that are putting strain on tourism businesses. These include higher taxes, increasing energy and water costs, a higher minimum wage, and reduced airline capacity. According to the industry association, these factors are limiting the financial room needed to invest in sustainability, infrastructure, and job creation.
BONHATA is calling on the government and its partners to focus on economic resilience and provide clear and consistent policy direction. Without such support, the organization warns that tourism’s ability to continue contributing to Bonaire’s economy and overall quality of life could be compromised.
According to BONHATA Director Veroesjka de Windt, Bonaire has rightly chosen a model of quality tourism that fits the island’s scale and respects nature, culture, and the local community. However, she emphasized that this approach requires more than regulation alone.
“Quality tourism demands targeted destination marketing and sufficient marketing budgets, as well as enough economic space for businesses to invest,” De Windt said. “Quality does not arise from restrictions alone, but from deliberate choices and adequate returns.”
The sector’s recovery highlights the resilience of tourism on Bonaire, but BONHATA’s warning underscores the need for balanced policies that ensure long-term sustainability while maintaining the sector’s economic viability.